“East Coast will have to work hard to ensure the WiFi system is more reliable than it’s historically been,” Dangerfield added.

“In a modern society where free WiFi connections are becoming more prevalent, this seems like a giant leap backwards,” said Lincoln MP Karl McCartney.

“Many passengers of all ages enjoy this service as part of their quite costly ticket on the East Coast line.

“This decision to charge for what was previously free, but with no added benefit, will be seen as another attempt by East Coast to raise their income without treating their passengers any better or providing a better service for them.

“If all ticket prices were being reduced and corresponding costs were then imposed for extra services, we at least would understand that East Coast were adopting the EasyJet model of travel provision,” McCartney added.

According to Network Rail figures, East Coast had the least punctual trains in the country in September (85% on time), down 3% from last year.